In the age of social media, crypto influencers hold significant sway over how people invest and learn about cryptocurrencies. Unfortunately, not all influencers have genuine intentions. I learned this the hard way when I almost fell for a fake course promoted by an influencer who claimed to be a blockchain expert.

I came across this influencer’s profile on Instagram. Their posts were filled with motivational quotes, screenshots of massive crypto profits, and pictures of a lavish lifestyle supposedly funded by their trading success. One day, they announced the launch of an exclusive online course aimed at teaching their followers how to replicate their success. The course promised step-by-step guidance, insider tips, and strategies to build wealth through crypto.

The price of the course was steep—$1,000 for lifetime access—but they were offering a “limited-time discount” that brought it down to $500. Tempted by the testimonials and the promise of financial freedom, I almost signed up. But before making the payment, I decided to dig deeper. A quick search revealed that several people had already fallen for similar scams. They paid for the course, only to receive generic materials that could easily be found online for free. Worse, some reported that the influencer blocked them after they tried to ask for refunds.

This experience taught me that in the crypto world, lifestyle photos and flashy claims don’t equate to credibility. Always research the background of anyone offering courses or investment advice, and be wary of anyone who pressures you into making quick decisions. Genuine educators and experts will have a track record of transparency and value.